How to Fold a Fitted Sheet

Things You Need:

• Flat surface
• Fitted sheet

Having an organized linen closet is easier than you think. Don't be intimidated by fitted sheets; the elastic around the edges makes it hard to fold them by conventional means, but they are quite manageable once you know how to handle them. Here is a quick and easy tutorial for mastering the task of folding a fitted sheet. These steps can be used on any size of fitted bedding. You might need to make adjustments depending on how small you want the folded sheet to be; for example, if you are folding a king sheet you may want to fold it into quarters instead of thirds.

Instructions:

1. Place your hands in two of the corners of the fitted sheet, with the rough seams facing outward.
   
2. Bring your hands together and fold one corner over the other so that both corners are now on one hand and the finished seam side is on the top.
   
3. Pull up a third corner and fold it over the other two. The rough seam should be on top now.
   
4. Grab the fourth corner and fold it over the other three with the finished seam on top. All four corners should be on one hand now.
   
5. Straighten the sides, so there will be no wrinkles and the sides hang nicely. Lay the sheet down on a table or bed.
   
6. Fold the sheet into thirds with the elastic in the middle. Then fold in thirds again to find your finished product: a beautifully folded sheet guaranteed to make any linen closet look better.
   

Tips:

1. Make sure all of your sheets are thoroughly clean and dry before storing them.
2. Try placing a dryer sheet in your linen closet to help your sheets and other bedding smell fresh longer.
   

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Bed Bugs

Bedbugs feed on your blood and cause itchy bites. Adult bed bugs are brown, 1/4 to 3/8 inches long, and have a flat, oval-shaped body. Young bed bugs (called nymphs) are smaller and lighter in color. Bedbugs hide in a variety of places around the bed. They might also hide in other places, such as in the seams of chairs and couches, between cushions, and in the folds of curtains. They come out to feed on blood about every five to ten days. But they can survive over a year without feeding.
To prevent bedbugs in your home:

• Check secondhand furniture for any signs of bedbugs before bringing it home.
• Use a protective cover that encases mattresses and box springs. Check it regularly for holes.
• Reduce clutter in your home so they have fewer places to hide.
• Unpack directly into your washing machine after a trip and check your luggage carefully. When staying in hotels, put your suitcases on luggage racks instead of the floor. Check the mattress and headboard for signs of bedbugs.

To get rid of bedbugs:

• Wash and dry bedding and clothing at high temperatures.
• Use mattress, box spring, and pillow encasements to trap bed bugs and help detect infestations.
• Use pesticides if needed.

The good news? Unlike some other pests, bedbugs don’t transmit and spread diseases.

Environmental Protection Agency

Bed Sheet Thread Count Fact Sheet

Thread count is an important consideration to take when choosing a new set of bed sheets, but it should not be used as a sole indicator of quality. Equally important in choosing a bed sheet is the type and quality of the materials used as well as the fabric's weave. If you're searching for great bedding, look at the bed sheet thread count fact sheet below.

About Bed Sheets:

1. Tallying it up: Thread count simply describes how many individual yarns are woven together in one square inch of a sheet's fabric. For example, if a square inch of fabric in a 300-thread count sheet with a standard weave were examined closely, 150 vertical threads and 150 horizontal threads would be counted, for a sum total of 300. Sheets with a high thread count (more than 200) are more desirable from a consumer perspective. However, many more factors can enhance the comfort and durability of sheets than thread count alone.
   
2. Woven-in comfort: The type of weave used in bed sheets can serve an ornamental purpose (such as in the case of jacquard sheets), but it can also alter the texture of the sheet and result in a more durable fabric. Sateen-woven sheets are constructed in a four-yarn-over, one-yarn-under weave, which gives the fabric its glossy appearance and satiny texture. Sheets with a pinpoint weave are constructed with two yarns over and one under. While somewhat less silky than a sateen weave, these sheets are slightly more durable, as fewer yarns are exposed on the fabric's surface. Percale-woven sheets are constructed so that each yarn is woven over and under the next to produce a fabric that's both resilient and comfortable.
   
3. Spinning a yarn: In addition to thread count, an important consideration when selecting sheets is the type of material used in their construction. Polyester-cotton blend sheets and 100-percent polyester satin sheets are extremely low-maintenance; they wash well and emerge from the dryer wrinkle-free. However, the downside to many polyester or polyester-blend sheets is that they don't "breathe" as well as those made of 100-percent cotton, which wick away moisture from the body. The highest-quality cotton types are Egyptian, Supima and Pima, which are made from extra-long staple (ELS) cotton. The longer yarns used to make these sheets result in a fabric that's not only extremely durable but becomes suppler over the course of many launderings.
   
4. Making the grade: Thread count isn't only a measure of a bed sheet's comfort, it attests to a sheet's ability to withstand snags and tears. For most consumers, what constitutes as an acceptable count is arbitrary; a 200-thread-count bed sheet may suffice well for some, while others may desire a thread count of 400 or higher. A simple test to ascertain thread count is to hold the material up against a light source. If the fabric appears opaque with no points of light shining through the gaps in the weave, the thread count is sufficient. Sheets with a low thread count permit easy visualization of the weave pattern when the fabric is placed under a strong light. Sheets with a high thread count have a flat, smooth surface; the weave itself may be difficult to see.
   
5. Final considerations: Thread count being equal, consumers should also look at the additional "perks" they want in their bed sheets. Polyester sheets or polyester blends may wrinkle less but might not provide the breathable quality of natural cotton. Cotton sheets with a sateen weave yield a silkier fabric with a glossy luster. Supima or Pima sheets, or those made of Egyptian cotton, provide a softer, suppler texture as well as offering built-in endurance that gives them a longer bed life. Ultimately, the choice lies with you. Regardless of thread count, the sheet's fabric should appear uniform and feel smooth to the touch.
   

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Comforters vs. Duvets

When you're redecorating a bedroom, the choice between a comforter and a duvet may arise. Although these terms sometimes seem to be used as synonyms, they refer to different types of bedding. Understanding the differences between comforters and duvets can help you decide which type you want to purchase for your own bedroom.

Comforters and Duvets:

1. Word origins: The term "comforter" was first used in the 14th century, but it referred to a person or thing that provided comfort. It was not until the early 19th century that the word was used in reference to bedding. The term "duvet" comes from an Old French word that means "down" in reference to the down feathers often used to stuff this type of bedding.
   
2. Uses: Comforters are typically just another part of a bedding set used in a bedroom. The comforter will normally match the other linens, such as the bed sheets and pillow cases. In contrast, duvets do not always match with additional bedding.
   
3. Filling: Duvets can be filled with down, synthetic materials, silk or wool. Comforters are filled with down, silk or wool as well as artificial materials.
   
4. Sizes: Both duvets and comforters are sold according to bed size. For example, you might choose between a twin-size and a queen-size comforter. However, comforters are designed to be larger than beds so they will hang over the sides. Duvets, on the other hand, fit the bed more snugly.
   
5. Care instructions: Comforters, like the rest of your bedding, will usually be washable. That means caring for the comforter is fairly easy. Duvets can be more challenging if they are made from natural materials. For this reason, you might want to invest in a duvet cover that is washable and will protect the duvet from stains, damage and dirt. Always read the care instructions on your comforter, duvet or duvet cover before cleaning.
   

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How to Clean Memory Foam Mattresses

Things You Need:

• Vacuum with soft brush attachment
• Fabric cleaner
• Spray bottle
• White vinegar
• Water source
• Hair dryer or fan

While memory foam mattresses can be a treat to sleep on, they can be very difficult to clean. Memory foam mattresses and pillows can be damaged in the washer or dryer; however, you can clean them with a few household products. It may take a couple of days for the mattress to dry, so you'll need to plan ahead. Look below to learn how to clean memory foam.

Instructions:

1. Vacuum. Vacuum the memory foam mattress or pillow using a handheld vacuum or a regular vacuum with a brush attachment. It may help to place the bedding on the floor or outside on a flat surface.
   
2. Begin washing. Fill a spray bottle with 1/2 cup cool-water fabric cleaner and 1 cup water. Shake well. Place the mattress in your bathtub or near an outdoor water source. Spray the memory foam mattress with your cleaning solution until you cover it entirely, front and back. Let the mattress sit for 30 to 45 minutes. Rinse off the mattress in the shower or with a hose.
   
3. Spray again. Refill your spray bottle with 1/4 cup vinegar and 3/4 cup water. Shake well. Spray the vinegar solution all over your memory foam mattress. Rinse the mattress again, getting all of the solution out. Clear out excess water by gently pressing on the mattress. Be careful; twisting or folding the mattress may cause it to permanently crease or tear.
   
4. Begin drying. Use a hair dryer or small fan to dry the memory foam mattress as much as possible. Leave the mattress outside or in a well-ventilated area to dry. It may take one or two days for it to fully dry. Use the hair dryer or fan every few hours to help the drying process.
   

How to Choose a Comforter Set

Do you wish you could give your bedroom a stylish new look in a flash? A comforter set can help. With the assistance of a comforter set, any bedroom can become a place of fashionable comfort in no time. Comforter sets are available for people of all tastes, so whether you have a goal to turn your studio apartment into a trendy retreat or wish to give your home a classic, opulent feel, finding the right bedding shouldn't be too difficult. If you are looking for new bedding for your home, read over the article below to learn how to choose a comforter set.

Choosing a Comforter Set:

1. Determine the size of comforter you need. Comforter sets are sold for every size of bed, so before you start looking, determine what size of bed you have. Whether you have a twin, twin XL, full, queen, king or California king bed, you can count on finding a comforter set that will fit it.
   
2. Think about comforter set style. Comforter sets and bed-in-a-bag sets are available in an incredible range of styles, meaning there is something within these bedding categories for virtually everyone. If you are the type who likes your home to look sleek and stylish, consider contemporary comforter sets. These bedding sets feature the latest design trends and innovations. Some bed-in-a-bag sets with modern styling offer bright, bold colors and prints, while others take a more minimalist approach with subdued tones and subtle prints. People who want a more classical look for their bedrooms can count on comforter sets, as well. There are plenty of traditional comforter sets available. These sets usually have ornate, luxurious pattern designs.
   
3. Consider comforter fabric. Comforter sets are created using a wide variety of materials. It doesn't matter what your fabric preference is; you are likely to find a bed-in-a-bag set that will suit your needs. Many of the best-selling comforter sets are created with cotton. From super-soft Egyptian cotton to homey, fun denim, it's possible to find all kinds of cotton-based comforter sets. If you want something with a luxurious look and feel, consider sateen or silk. Looking for winter warmth? Think about bedding sets made with wool and flannel.
   

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Egyptian Cotton Sheets vs. Sateen Sheets

Deciding which type of luxury sheets to purchase is easier when you have the facts. Sateen sheets feel soft when new and have sheen to them, while Egyptian cotton sheets soften over time with use. Both are made from cotton and have much to offer, making the choice one of budget and personal taste.

What You Need to Know:

1. About sateen sheets: Sateen sheets are 100 percent cotton sheets with a high thread count and a lustrous sheen. They are woven from combed, carded or long-fiber cotton threads that are then mercerized, meaning they're soaked in lye and then in acid. This process not only strengthens the cotton fibers and makes them more durable, but also gives sateen sheets their signature sheen and helps them accept dye evenly.
   
2. About Egyptian cotton sheets: Egyptian cotton is woven from the cotton plant gossypium barbadense, which is native to Peru and the West Indies but is also grown in certain American regions. This plant produces long, thin fibers that won't pill because the plant itself produces little to no lint. With proper care, Egyptian cotton sheets will last several decades, which helps justify a higher price tag.
   
3. Considerations: Although sateen sheets look and feel luxurious, they are prone to pilling and wrinkling. Egyptian cotton sheets keep a crisp, ironed look but are initially coarser than their sateen counterparts, softening after being washed repeatedly. Sateen sheets are soft right out of the package.
   
4. Benefits: Egyptian cotton sheets don't pill or produce much lint, making them a perfect choice for those suffering from dust allergies. Egyptian cotton sheets are extremely breathable and won't stifle you during warm months but will retain body heat during colder months. Also, the extra-long cotton fibers used to produce Egyptian cotton are also thinner, which translates to higher thread counts. This is why Egyptian cotton sheets are so durable. Sateen sheets, because of the mercerizing process, resist mildew, also making them a good choice for anyone suffering from allergies. Sateen sheets drape well and also have a high thread count due to the cotton fibers used. Sateen sheets, like Egyptian cotton sheets, are breathable and suitable for any season.
   

How to Choose Bed Sheets

You spend approximately one-third of your life in bed, and choosing the right bed sheets can make the difference between a night of tossing and turning and a night of blissful slumber. Bed sheet quality depends upon the type of fiber, the fabric weave pattern and the tightness of the fabric weave. If you're on the hunt for new bedding, look below to learn how to choose bed sheets.

Instructions:

1. Measure the depth of your mattress. Today's bed sheets are available in sets or for purchase individually, and they will fit most standard mattresses except those that are very deep. By knowing how thick your top mattress is, you can select the correct size sheets. Extra-deep pockets are available in some styles.
   
2. Consider thread count. Look for a high thread count when comfort and durability are important. Sheet manufacturers determine the thread count by the number of threads contained in one square inch of the bed sheet fabric. A thread count of 200 is acceptable, but good-quality sheets may have thread counts between 300 and 500. The highest quality luxury sheets may have thread counts over 600.
   
3. Think about Egyptian cotton. The Egyptian cotton plant produces a finer and longer thread staple, enabling sheet manufacturers to increase tension on the thread and create a finer and tighter weave. Luxury bed sheets often contain Egyptian cotton.
   
4. Think about sateen. Choose sateen sheets for a soft feel. Sateen sheets contain cotton fibers, but manufacturers use a special weave to make one side of the fabric very smooth. Expect to sacrifice some durability when you have sateen sheets. These sheets may pill after a few dozen washings, but they are very comfortable and suitable for guest beds where they will not be overused.
   
5. Go with a fabric that works for you. Select special fabrics to suit your sleeping style. Satin sheets are relatively inexpensive and have a super-silky feel, but they may trap moisture next to the body. Sheets made of silk and bamboo fibers are incredibly soft but are more expensive and may require special care, such as hand washing or dry cleaning. Cotton sheets are available in a wide array of textures and qualities, meaning they're a dependable choice.
   
6. Mix and match. Mix and match bed sheets with bed skirts, comforters and window treatments to create an interesting, dynamic style in your bedroom.
   

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